Stepping into Replay Guitar Exchange is like entering a guitarist’s dream. The warm ambiance of dimmed lighting, rich walnut floors, and tastefully decorated accent walls immediately sets a welcoming tone. Against a sleek black felt backdrop, a stunning array of acoustic guitars is showcased, each style distinct and inviting. During my visit, I observed a customer lost in his own world, gently strumming a guitar, testing its feel and sound. While his impromptu performance was captivating, my gaze soon drifted towards a captivating collection of ukuleles and banjos displayed behind a pristine glass window. Instantly, the virtuoso sounds of Jake Shimabukuro filled my mind, recalling the sheer awe of watching his masterful ukulele playing. The desire to emulate his fast and intricate fingerwork was strong, leading me to explore the beautifully crafted ukuleles. Picking one up, I attempted to coax a pleasing sound, and with Jake’s inspiration in mind, any initial discouragement quickly faded.
But Replay Guitar Exchange offers much more than just guitars and ukuleles. To the left, a dedicated room hums with the power of amplifiers, promising sonic exploration. Another room caters specifically to bass guitarists, where the deep, resonant tones of a slap bass line demonstration filled the air. For those in need of instrument care, a skilled luthier is on-site, ready to tackle any guitar repair needs. Further into the store, individual lesson rooms are equipped with iMacs, offering modern learning tools. Students can even take away a recording of their lesson on a thumb drive – a fantastic feature for practice and progress tracking. And for parents or friends waiting, a comfortable lounge area provides a relaxing space.
Returning to the front of the store, I must mention the small stage that became a focal point on the grand opening night. The progressive rock sounds of John Wesley, featuring music from his album Disconnect, resonated throughout the space. John Wesley (vocals/guitars), along with Patrick Bettison (bass guitar) and Mark Prator (drums and percussion), undeniably captivated the large crowd eager to explore South Tampa’s newest guitar store. The evening was a perfect blend of discovering a new musical haven and experiencing the exceptional talent of John Wesley and his band. Replay Guitar Exchange is clearly more than just a store; it’s a vibrant hub for musicians and music lovers alike.
